Classical hitlist

The best opera and classical music

Paragon Ensemble: Loony Tunes (pictured) Another first for Paragon as they give the UK premiere of Lyell Cresswell’s Of Whirlwind Underground which depicts Prometheus’ efforts to steal fire from the gods and his resulting punishment at the hands of the Furies. Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow, Mon 9 Oct; Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh Tue 10 Oct.

Scottish Opera: Der Rosenkavalier Scottish Opera starts the 2006/07 season with a revival of its hugely successful production of Richard Strauss’s much-loved comic opera. It opens in the bedroom of the middle-aged, married Marschallin in the company of her teenage lover, Octavian, the latter played by the stunning young mezzo, Sarah Connelly, who makes her debut in the role, as well as her debut with the company. Theatre Royal, Glasgow, Sat 7, Wed 11 & Sat 14 Oct.

Royal Scottish National Orchestra: Benedetti and Denève It should be quite something to hear the combination of young superstar Nicola Benedetti in the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto with Denève conducting. Following the great success of her recent recording of the Mendelssohn, it is a special programme request from Nicky herself as she wanted to bring the work to Scottish audiences. Usher Hall, Edinburgh, Fri 13 Oct; Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Sat 14 Oct.